MY STORY
Abandoned hungry, hurting and scared, chained in a gas station, I began the first lap of my difficult but amazing journey, a journey leading to my mission as a therapy dog
in service to others.
During my stay at the Bloomfield Animal Shelter, I came to know the misery of loneliness, though I am forever grateful to the wonderful volunteers who treated me with kindness and dignity. When my soon to be Dad walked into my life, I came to understand the beauty and healing power of love. He seemed a little different at first and always had a lot to say, but many sniffs later I was certain he was a true friend. I was right. It was love at first sight!
Shortly thereafter, I discovered I had a lovely new home, doting parents, and a brother and sister who showered me with their affection. In addition, I had three playful canine siblings - two brothers and a sister.
Despite my blessings, life was far from uncomplicated. As a result of my severe injuries, I had to undergo two major surgeries on my hind legs, followed by months of painful rehabilitation. Nevertheless, throughout this trying ordeal, I remained calm, loving and willing to forgive those who mistreated me. I now realize that these attributes, together with the acceptance of my agonies, enabled and enable me to feel empathy and compassion for all who suffer. Strengthening my character, they inspired me to understand the tormenting plight of those I lovingly serve.
Many times, when I look into the eyes of the people I meet, I see the same anguish I endured as a young pup. Since I was blessed and able to overcome and triumph, thanks to the goodness of an amazing man, I want to give back. Maybe I can be the amazing dog helping men, women, teens and children rise above and conquer their challenges. This is my passion - my reason for living.
To learn more about me and my incredible journey, read my book Shelby‘s Grace.
And yes, you can also get to know my great Dad and the rest of my fabulous family.
MY LIFE
My transition from abused and abandoned pup to therapy dog would have been a thorny task for a pup of any breed, however, my Pit Bull ‘ethnicity‘ collared me with
the slings and arrows of hurtful, unjust prejudices I am still trying to overcome. Sadly, many people mistakenly label me threatening or potentially violent based on a few incidences of aggressive conduct in dogs of my breed.
What often escapes those who are misinformed is the fact that many Pit Bulls demonstrate belligerence or an unfriendly nature as a result of aggressive training in the ring or mistreatment by their owners, resulting in a mistrust of humans and the onset of aggressive-defensive behavior.
Did you know that the American Temperament Test, given by the American Temperament Test Society, demonstrates that after years of testing all breeds, Pit Bulls consistently achieve an above average score?
Ironically, my transition began in the wake of the Michael Vick dog fighting case which thrust the Pit Bull into the limelight as a victim of human brutality. It did, nevertheless, confirm the criminal re-programming of the engaging disposition of a Pit Bull for monetary gain. In reality, as Pit Bulls, we are capable of and willing to give love and compassion.
When you read my book, Shelby‘s Grace, you will see that despite my sweet temperament, I was denied visitation at a town‘s senior housing development,just because I am a Pit Bull. But my Dad and many of my friends are joining me in a quest to put and end to unfair breed profiling and all prejudicial thinking. It is hurtful and denies lots of needy people the possibility to receive the comfort and joy of my love and compassion.
Part of the proceeds will be donated towards National Organizations of Animal Rights/Rescue/Welfare
www.shelbysgrace.com
FACEBOOK
P76287 - Shelby's Grace
ISBN-10: 0615386288
ISBN-13: 9780615386287
By Joe Dwyer
Shelby, an abused pit bull, finds a purpose to her life as a therapy dog after being rescued from a shelter.
Price: $18.95
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